MATSAPHA –Eswatini’s fastest woman is unstoppable!
Sprint sensation Bongiwe Mahlalela bagged another top honour yesterday, October 30, at the Prestige Sports Awards 2026.
This is just three weeks after being crowned Sportswoman of the Year at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Mahlalela was invited to the prestigious awards where she again won Sportswoman of the Year and the International Participation Award, walking away with E10 000 and a seven-day vacation at top hotels in South Africa, including Emperors Palace, Garden Court, WINK ApartHotel and The Pretoria Hotel.
Reflecting on her journey, Mahlalela said her sporting career is built on hard work.
“My sporting journey has been built on hard work, patience, discipline, sacrifice and perseverance. Over the years, I have continued to push myself, overcome challenges and remain committed to becoming a better athlete, even during moments when my strength was depleted,” she said.
She revealed that receiving two achievements at the 2026 TUT Sports Awards made her proud.
“One of my proudest achievements was receiving two awards at the 2026 TUT Sports Awards. I was honoured with the Sportswoman of the Year Award and an International Participation Award,” she added.
She added that winning after consecutive nominations meant so much to her.
“Being recognised as Sportswoman of the Year means so much to me. I continued to work hard, remain patient and trust the process. This year, it was finally my turn and my time to shine!”
She further expressed gratitude to TUT for supporting her journey.
“I am incredibly grateful to TUT for supporting me from my first year right through to my final year. The university has played a significant role in both my academic and sporting journey. Academically, TUT has taken care of my tuition fees since day one,” she said.
She also appreciated her supporters.
“I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to EOCGA, AE, ETISA, Instacash, Joma Sport SA, REPS, coach Willem de Beer, physio Paul Durand, psychologist Dr Rucksana, all my supporters and my family,” she reflected.
